1) Build an understanding of radio and build an SDR transceiver to cover an ISM band and the HAM HF bands.

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2) Build an understanding of the software required to Rx and Tx

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3) Encourage software developers to study existing over the air protocols and start to design new ones.

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That might not sound like a lot, but we still have a big challenge to complete the second goal.

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The third is obviously ongoing and we hope to be able to help

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Mark VK5QI has decided that his experience with the [http://www.norcalqrp.org/files/Tayloe_mixer_x3a.pdf Tayloe mixer] with [http://www.qsl.net/zl1wtt/I&Q.htm I&Q] as used in the SoftRocks is firm ground on which to build. He has been inspired by [http://nt7s.com/2014/06/a-prototype-for-a-si5351-based-ssb-rig/ some new SSB project by NT7S], using a newly available DDS, the multiple output SI5351. Completing the picture, the controller is the well known Arduino, designed by (can't find the guys name and call sign, was on a recent soldersmoke)

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So moving forward the second prototype is currently on the workbend at Marks QTH. The software stack, while complex can be simplified to using existing applications like [http://w1hkj.com/Fldigi.html FLDIGI] or building the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GNU_Radio GNU][http://gnuradio.squarespace.com/ stack].

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Following on the the how in the now, we need to look forward. Thinking about the existing protocols, the current ways of encoding data on the wire and over the air, we are aiming to approach the design of new over the air protocols.

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We are currently working through the materials for the build'a'thon. Once we are happy with them we will update this page and put an announe here.